London, the city that’s always buzzin’ with food from all corners of the globe, is now riding the vegan wave in a big way.
More and more people are choosing the plant-powered life, which means there’s no better time to check out all the kickass vegan joints popping up in this amazing city.
Especially in the super lively area of King’s Cross, vegan restaurants are stealing the show. They’re serving up fantastic inventive dishes that aren’t just for the die-hard vegans, but also for anyone who just loves to eat good food.
In this article, I’m gonna take you on a virtual tour of the four best vegan-friendly hotspots in King’s Cross you should definitely visit if nearby.
4 Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Near King’s Cross, London
ItadakiZen: A Japanese Fusion Experience
ItadakiZen rocks as the only legit vegan Japanese spot in London, run by true blue Japanese folks. Their menu’s like the seasons, always changing, keeping things fresh and exciting.
You’ve got to try their spicy ramen, curry, kinpira carrot, mabo tofu, meatballs, and ‘calamari’. It’s all vegan, all delicious, and done just right. The desserts are a bit slim during Summer but come back in Fall for their killer pumpkin pie.
The vibe’s pretty chill. It’s a great place for hanging out with friends or enjoying a meal solo. The tables are compact, so it’s not the place for secret chats. Plus, they’ve got a strict return table policy, so make sure your friends/family arrive on time.
The menu can be a bit tricky online, but it’s got pictures in the restaurant, making it a breeze to order.
You’ll find ramen, sushi, tempura, and some really cool side dishes. Expect to drop about £115 for a group of four, but for the taste and variety, it’s worth every penny.
Booking’s a good idea, especially on weekends, when it’s usually packed.
Just a heads up – some dishes can be a bit salty, and the berry cake dessert might not blow you away. Also, the staff might seem a bit reserved, but don’t sweat it – that’s just a cultural thing.
Overall, ItadakiZen’s a must-visit for vegans, veggies, and anyone who’s into Japanese food. It’s a cozy spot that’s serving up big flavors and a unique vegan experience.
Mildred’s: A Cozy Vegan Retreat
Step into Mildred’s, and you’ll feel like you’ve just walked into a cozy, home kitchen. The vibe is chill, and the staff is super welcoming. They’ve got this knack for making you feel right at home, right from the get-go.
When it comes to grub, Mildred’s really brings it. Their hummus and pita? Divine. The nachos? A total crowd-pleaser. And the leek tortellini will have you reaching for seconds. But the real showstopper here is their tiramisu—it’s so creamy, you’ll be dreaming about it for days.
Don’t be fooled by the size of the menu, though. What it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in variety. Shiitake tempeh noodles, bbq pulled “pok” bun, dark chocolate pudding—they’ve got all bases covered. And it’s not just the food that’s a hit, the drinks are a treat too. From kefir water to fig, tamarind, and mint tea, there’s something for everyone.
Got a big crew? No worries. Mildred’s has a solid track record of handling large groups with ease. Their staff are patient, accommodating, and always ready to help out with different food preferences. So whether it’s a casual get-together or a planned brunch, they’ve got you covered.
To sum it all up, Mildred’s is the place to be for good vibes, great food, and excellent service. It’s a spot that’s sure to impress, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just on the hunt for a delicious, healthy meal. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about—you won’t be disappointed!
Dishoom: A Taste of Bombay in London
Dishoom in King’s Cross is set in a revamped old-school Victorian warehouse from the 1850s that used to be a train shed.
Imagine all the goods that used to flow through here to Bombay, and now it’s serving up Bombay-style grub to Londoners. Talk about a full circle!
Now, it’s not strictly a vegan hangout, but Dishoom has loads of vegan options that’ll tickle your fancy, from snackable bites like Okra Fries to hearty mains like Chole Chawal, a spicy chickpea curry that’ll warm you from the inside out.
And, for all you sweet-toothed vegans, they’ve got you covered with stuff like Basmati Kheer, a dreamy caramelized rice pudding made with coconut milk and spiced with cardamom.
People can’t stop raving about this place. It’s got a chill vibe, with vintage family photos on the walls and retro toilets that are kept super clean.
The staff knows their stuff, and they’re always ready to help you navigate the menu.
Plus, they’ve got a decent policy on service charge – it’s totally optional and if you do pay, it all goes to the team working at the restaurant.
Dishoom’s spot in King’s Cross is loved for its genuine, gritty London feel. Around Granary Square, there’s a lively, musical atmosphere that adds to the whole experience. It can get pretty packed, but trust me, the wait is worth it.
Of course, no place is perfect. Some people have mentioned that the tables are a bit too close together and that the restaurant could use a bit more lighting.
If you’re up for something different, nearby you’ll find ItadakiZen, the other amazing restaurant I’ve told you about. The food is fresh and interesting, with top-notch vegan sushi and perfect sticky rice.
Dishoom is an epic blend of history, good vibes, and tasty food. It’s a top spot for anyone with special dietary needs, and it’s got a bunch of fans who love its food and service. So, if you’re ever in the neighborhood, do yourself a favor and give it a try!
Thenga Cafe: Your Vegan Indian Cuisine Destination
Say hello to Thenga Cafe, a real gem for vegan food lovers nestled in King’s Cross.
San, the owner, created Thenga Cafe back in 2015, and he came up with a relaxed, inviting environment where you can sit back and savor a healthy, well-prepared meal.
The menu is unique, blending European and Indian cuisines with a hint of Bengal.
Everything is vegan, made from fresh and natural ingredients, a nod to our environment and health-conscious diners. Their selection is quite broad, from delicious dosas and lentils to vibrant vegetables, not to mention their fresh juices.
The daal is a standout, a delicious example of simple, yet flavorful, Indian-European fusion. If you’re a curry fan, the fresh vegan curry is something you’ll remember. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and reasonably priced. Pair it with their wraps or protein balls, and you’re in for a treat. And for dessert, the banana bread is pretty good.
The cafe is conveniently located just a short walk from St Pancras, making it easily accessible. And if you’re a student, Thenga Cafe offers a nice perk – a 15% discount.
Inside, the atmosphere is more about comfort than extravagance. It’s not the most lavish of settings, but the warm ambiance and friendly staff more than make up for it.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
So, if you’re roaming around King’s Cross and feel like diving into some vegan goodness, give Thenga Cafe a shot. It’s a blend of good food, cozy vibes, and health-conscious living— definitely worth checking out!
Tips for Going Out to Restaurants as a Vegan
Heading out for a bite to eat as a vegan isn’t half as challenging as you might think.
Sure, if you find yourself in a remote village it might be trickier, but in the hustle and bustle of any city, it’s no longer a challenge… much less in the UK.
All it takes is a bit of planning and some chit-chat, and you can nail a fantastic meal experience, even if you’re not in a vegan-only joint.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for you:
- Be a Detective: Before you step out, do a bit of snooping around. Go online and check out the restaurant’s menu. You’ll find that most spots have vegan options or dishes that can be tweaked a bit. Look out for reviews from your vegan tribe – they can give you some real insights.
- Speak Up: Once you’re there, let the staff know you’re vegan. Trust me, they won’t bite. They’ll help you navigate the menu, point out the vegan-friendly goodies, and might even suggest some cool customizations. Chefs love to show off their flexibility, you know.
- Keep an Open Mind: Hey, being a vegan doesn’t mean you’ve got to stick to the vegan clique. Lots of other restaurants whip up amazing plant-based dishes. So go ahead, step out of your comfort zone – you might be in for a pleasant surprise!
- Pack Some Vegan Lifesavers: If you’re a little unsure about what will be available, bring along some of your vegan must-haves. Maybe a tiny bottle of your favorite vegan salad dressing or some vegan snacks – could be a lifesaver!
- Show Some Love: If a restaurant bends over backward to cater to your vegan taste buds, give them a BIG thank you. A bit of positive feedback could inspire them to expand their vegan offerings— and you see it a lot now; there are many restaurants coming up with all sorts of vegan-friendly options!
These are simple tips to help you navigate restaurants that don’t label themselves as vegan but might be open to serving some vegan goodies— Dishoom is one of them!
Summary
And that’s a wrap, – your quick ‘n’ easy guide to the top vegan hotspots in the ever-so-busy King’s Cross.
Plus, we’ve thrown in a few solid tips to keep your dining-out game strong.
Let’s face it, being vegan in the big city isn’t just doable, it’s pretty darn fantastic!
So, whether you’re a vegan veteran or just dipping your toes in the plant-based pool, this guide’s got you covered for a gastronomic adventure that’s tasty, fun, and totally vegan.
Now, all that’s left for you is to pick a spot from our list, rally your friends, and head to your place of choice!
